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Abstract:

An apparatus, method and system are provided for sensing at least one
biometric measure of an individual. A low voltage pulsed electrical
charge is applied to a transparent electrode plate, which is dimensioned
to receive a portion of an individual's dermal surface having molecules
associated therewith. The pulsed electrical charge stimulates and excites
the molecules and causes molecular compounds to fluoresce. An image of
the fluoresced dermal surface is obtained and a biometric function is
performed with data derived from the image.

Claims:

1. An apparatus for obtaining biometric information from an individual's
dermal surface, comprising: (a) a transparent substrate dimensioned to
receive the individual's dermal surface; (b) a first device coupled to
the transparent substrate and configured to stimulate molecules in the
vicinity of the individual's dermal surface and cause compounds in the
stimulated molecules to fluoresce; and (c) a second device configured to
capture an image of the dermal surface derived from the fluoresced
molecular compounds.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first device comprises
an electro-magnetic field generator configured to generate a pulsed
electrical charge within a range of from about 1 to 25 volts and at
intervals of at least 1 pulse per second, wherein each pulsed electrical
charge has a duration of about 1 microsecond.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first device comprises
an electro-magnetic field generator configured to generate a pulsed
electrical charge of about 1 to 2 volts and at intervals of from about 5
to 10 pulses per second, wherein each pulsed electrical charge has a
duration of about 1 microsecond.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first device comprises
an electro-magnetic field generator configured to generate a pulsed
electrical charge of from about 1 to 6 volts and at intervals of at least
about 5 pulses per second, wherein each pulsed electrical charge has a
duration of about 1 microsecond.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first device comprises
a light impulse generator.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first device comprises
an acoustic pressure generator.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second device is a CCD
array camera.

8. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the transparent substrate
comprises: (a) a transparent glass plate having a top surface and a
bottom surface; and (b) a transparent current conductive layer on the
bottom surface of the transparent glass plate, wherein the transparent
current conductive layer is coupled in communication with the
electro-magnetic field generator.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein a layer of transparent
polymer material is disposed on the top surface of the transparent glass
plate.

10. A method for biometric identification based on biometric information
sensed from an individual's dermal surface, comprising the steps of: (a)
stimulating molecules in the vicinity of the individual's dermal surface
and causing compounds in the stimulated molecules to fluoresce; (b)
capturing an image derived from the dermal surface having fluoresced
molecular compounds; (c) identifying sweat pore locations derived from
fluoresced points detected on the image; (d) comparing identified sweat
pore locations derived from the image with reference sweat pore location
data; (e) determining whether a match is found between the identified
sweat pore locations derived from the image and the reference sweat pore
location data; and (f) responsive to determining that the match is found,
making a positive biometric identification.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the step of stimulating molecules
comprises applying a pulsed electric charge to a transparent substrate
dimensioned to receive the individual's dermal surface.

12. A method for biometric authentication based on biometric information
sensed from an individual's dermal surface, comprising the steps of: (a)
receiving a purported identity for the individual; (b) stimulating
molecules in the vicinity of the individual's dermal surface and causing
compounds in the stimulated molecules to fluoresce; (c) capturing an
image derived from the dermal surface having fluoresced molecular
compounds; (d) identifying sweat pore locations derived from fluoresced
points detected on the image; (e) comparing identified sweat pore
locations derived from the image with reference sweat pore location data
for the purported identity; (f) determining whether a match is found
between the identified sweat pore locations derived on the image and the
reference sweat pore location data for the purported identity; and (g)
responsive to determining that the match is found, making a positive
biometric authentication.

13. A method for establishing liveness of a biometric subject, comprising
the steps of: (a) stimulating molecules in the vicinity of the biometric
subject dermal surface and causing compounds in the stimulated molecules
to fluoresce; (b) capturing an image derived from the dermal surface
having fluoresced molecular compounds; (c) identifying sweat pores
derived from fluoresced points detected on the image; (d) analyzing
characteristics of the identified sweat pores and comparing the
characteristics of the identified sweat pores with corresponding
reference sweat pore characteristics; (e) determining whether there is at
least some minimal variation between the characteristics of the
identified sweat pores and the characteristics of the corresponding
reference sweat pores; and (f) responsive to determining that sufficient
minimal variation is found, confirming liveness of the biometric sample.

[0002] The present invention relates to a system, method and apparatus for
sensing biometric information. More specifically, the present invention
relates to a system, method and apparatus for detecting and analyzing an
individual's sweat pores as an identification, authentication and/or
liveness biometric measure.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Biometric identification systems use sensor technologies to obtain
information regarding an individual's unique physical characteristics and
compare the obtained information with verified reference information to
confirm the identity of the individual. Known biometric identification
systems have used optical, thermal, capacitive, impedance,
radio-frequency, conductance and ultrasonic based sensors for detecting
biometric information.

[0004] Physical characteristics that are commonly used for biometric
identification include unique features from an individual's face, iris,
hand geometry, vein pattern, palm and fingerpads. The most predominantly
used physical characteristics for biometric identification are the
minutiae or macrofeatures found on the dermal surface of an individual's
fingerpad. For example, an individual's fingerpad is covered with a
pattern of ridges and valleys commonly referred to as a fingerprint. Each
fingerprint scan contains about 30 to 40 minutiae and macrofeatures which
are unique biometric identification characteristics. The dermal surface
of an individual's finger also has between 50 and 300 sweat pores located
on the fingerprint ridges. Like an individual's fingerprint, the number
and locations of sweat pores on an individual's fingerpad do not change
and provide unique biometric identification characteristics. Moreover,
the locations of an individual's sweat pores relative to the fingerprint
minutiae or macrofeatures provides an additional biometric identification
measure.

[0005] The common traits to biometric identification measures are their
permanence and uniqueness. However, these basic traits also make the
biometric identification systems vulnerable to spoofing. Spoofing is the
act of using an artificial biometric sample (such as a "fake finger")
containing a replica of an authorized individual's fingerpad to enable an
unauthorized individual to gain access to a secured system. Spoofing may
also be used to enable an individual to pass himself off as another
individual at a security checkpoint. Typically, the replicated fingerpad
is formed of a synthetic material such as gelatin (including gummi which
is obtained by gelling aqueous solution of gelatin), silicone, epoxy,
latex and the like.

[0006] Anti-spoofing systems typically are designed to detect the liveness
of the physical sample presented to the biometric detection sensor. Most
of these systems involve relatively large sensors which are unacceptable
for mobile or portable devices. In addition, anti-spoofing systems are
typically directed to detecting a liveness measure of the finger such as
finger surface resistance, temperature, pulse, moisture, and blood
oximetry. These systems, however, can be circumvented because they
operate by comparing the detected liveness measure value to a
predetermined acceptable range. Namely, it is possible to design an
artificial biometric sample which produces a detected liveness measure
within a known acceptable range. For example, artificial biometric
samples can be made of materials with electrical properties resembling
that of a living finger and which yield a biometric liveness measure
within a given acceptable range.

[0007] Therefore, it would be beneficial to provide a biometric
identification system based on the detection and analysis of both
permanent and variable unique physical characteristics so as to provide
identification, authentication and/or proof of a live biometric sample.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] An objective of the invention is to provide an apparatus, method
and system for biometric sensing based on the application of a
low-voltage, variable frequency pulsed electrical charge to stimulate and
excite the molecules associated with an individual's dermal surface and
cause compounds contained within the molecules to fluoresce.

[0009] A further objective of the present invention is detecting the
locations of sweat pores on an individual's dermal surface by exciting
and fluorescing molecules on the dermal surface as well as within the
sweat glands associated with the sweat pores.

[0010] Another objective of the invention is performing a biometric
function, such as biometric identification or authentication based on the
detection and analysis of sweat pores data derived from an image of
fluoresced molecular compounds associated with an individual's dermal
surface. The detected sweat pore information is compared to reference
sweat pore information such that biometric identification or
authentication is based on a determination whether there is an acceptable
percentage of number of matching sweat pores and absence of false
detected sweat pores.

[0011] Another objective of the invention is an apparatus, method an
system for establishing proof of liveness of a biometric sample based on
the detection and analysis of an individual's sweat pores. A first proof
of liveness is provided by the capture of an image derived from the
individual's dermal surface having fluoresced biological points
identifying active sweat pores. A second proof of liveness is provided by
the detection of sufficient minimal variation in the size, shape,
intensity or brightness of the fluoresced biological points of the
detected sweat pores and reference sweat pore information.

[0012] Yet another objective of the invention is a biometric
identification or authentication based on the detection and analysis of
an individual's fingerprint and sweat pores.

[0013] A further objective of the present invention is a sweat pore
biometric identification system comprising a portable biometric detection
apparatus and a remote central database containing reference sweat pore
information.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0014] These and other aspects of the invention will be described with
reference to the drawings, in which:

[0015] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a sweat pore biometric detection
apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016]FIG. 2 is an exemplary illustration of a fingerpad image produced
according to the present invention.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process for the
detection and analysis of sweat pores for biometric identification
according to the present invention.

[0018]FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process for the
detection and analysis of sweat pores for biometric identification and
proof of liveness according to the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process for the
detection and analysis of sweat pores and fingerprints for biometric
identification according to the present invention.

[0020]FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary authentication
process based on the detection and analysis of sweat pores with in
accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of the
present invention for biometric identification and proof of liveness
based on the detection and analysis of sweat pores on an individual's
fingerpad. As shown in FIG. 1, the biometric identification apparatus
comprises an electro-magnetic field generator 140, a transparent
electrode 110, and an image capture device 150. Electro-magnetic field
generator 140 is configured to generate a low voltage, variable frequency
pulsed electrical charge when an individual's finger is placed in the
proximity of the top surface of transparent electrode 110. The
electro-magnetic field generator 140 is configured to generate an
electrical charge within a range of about 1 to 25 volts and at pulsed
intervals within a range of about 1 to 10 or more pulses a second, with
each pulse having a duration of about 1 microsecond (10-6 seconds).
It will be understood that the electro-magnetic field generator may be
calibrated to produce different electric charges falling within these
specified ranges. For example, the electro-magnetic field generator may
be configured to generate an electrical charge of from about 15 to 25
volts at pulsed intervals of about 1 to 2 pulses per second. By way of
further example, the electro-magnetic field generator may be configured
to generate an electrical charge of from about 7 to 15 volts at pulsed
intervals of about 2 to 4 pulses per second. Alternatively, the
electro-magnetic field generator may be configured to generate an
electrical charge of from about 1 to 6 volts at pulsed intervals of from
5 to 10 or more pulses per second. In a preferred embodiment, the
electro-magnetic field generator is configured to generate an electrical
charge of about 1 to 2 volts at pulsed intervals of from about 7 to 10
pulses per second.

[0022] Transparent electrode 110 may comprise a transparent glass
substrate 115 having a transparent current conductive coating layer 130
on its bottom surface. In addition, the top surface of the transparent
electrode 110 is dimensioned to receive the individual's fingerpad and
may be coated with a transparent polymer material 120 to prevent
electrical charge from being transmitted to the individual's fingerpad.

[0023] Without wishing to be bound by any scientific theory and
explanation, applicant believes that the pulsed electrical charge
provided by the electro-magnetic field generator 140 stimulates and
excites molecules associated with complex metabolic waste substances
(such as sweat gland amino acid molecules), loosely bound atmospheric
water vapor residing on the dermal surface of an individual's fingerpad,
and other materials including atomic oxygen. This, in turn, causes
compounds adjacent to the ions within the excited molecules to become
visible or fluoresce. It is further believed that the fluoresced
molecules travel along the dermal surface to open sweat pores because the
high levels of salt, water and amino acid in the sweat glands provides a
superior grounding path for the ions. As shown in FIG. 2, this yields
visible points or points of fluorescence which correspond with the
locations of sweat pores on the individual's fingerpad.

[0024] Image capture device 150 is configured to capture an image of the
fluoresced biological points representing the locations of the sweat
pores on the fingerpad placed in the proximity of the transparent
electrode 110. Image capture device 150 may comprise a solid state camera
such as a computer controlled CCD array camera configured to capture
real-time visualization of the fingerpad image or a spectrophotometer. It
will be understood that the image capture device may alternatively
capture a negative of the image, thereby representing the biological
points as black points on a white background.

[0025] The electro-magnetic field generator and/or image capture device
may be adapted to capture an image containing fluoresced points
identifying the sweat pores or both a fingerprint pattern and fluoresced
points identifying the sweat pores. For example, it will be understood
that the resolution of the image capture device 150 and/or the voltage,
rate and/or duration of the pulsed electrical charge provided by the
electro-magnetic field generator 140 may be modified to capture an image
of only the fluoresced points on the fingerpad or both the fingerprint
and fluoresced points on the fingerpad. Capture of the fingerprint image
does not require an external light source reflected on the fingerpad
because the fingerprint is illuminated by the fluorescence of the excited
molecules caused by the pulsed electrical charge provided by
electro-magnetic field generator 140.

[0026] Alternatively, light impulses, acoustic pressure and/or vibration
techniques may be used alone or in combination with the low voltage,
variable frequency pulsed electronic charge to stimulate and excite the
molecules on the dermal surface, and cause the compounds adjacent the
ions within the excited molecules to fluoresce. In addition, it will be
understood that the exemplary apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1 may be
configured to capture and analyze image data from any dermal surface
having sweat pores with associated molecules suitable for stimulation,
fluorescence and image capture, including multiple fingerpads and palms
or any portions thereof.

[0027] In one embodiment of the invention, the biometric identification
system is designed to detect sweat pores, independent of any other
feature of the dermal surface such as a fingerprint. FIG. 3 is a
flowchart illustrating an exemplary process for detecting and analyzing
sweat pores in accordance with the invention. The process shown in FIG. 3
may be implemented in a biometric identification and proof of life system
using, for example, the apparatus shown in FIG. 1.

[0028] The process begins when the sweat pore biometric identification
system detects a fingerpad on the top surface of a transparent plate
(step 302). For example, sweat pore biometric identification apparatus
100 detects fingerpad 160 on the top surface of transparent electrode
plate 110 in FIG. 1. Subsequent to detecting the fingerpad on the
transparent plate in step 302, the electro-magnetic field generator 140
provides a pulsed electrical charge to stimulate and excite molecules
associated with the dermal surface of the fingerpad and, thereby, cause
compounds adjacent ions within the molecules to fluoresce (step 304).
Then, the sweat pore biometric system uses an image capture device 150
(e.g., a CCD array camera) to obtain an image of the fingerpad derived
from the fluoresced biological points, such as the fingerpad image shown
in FIG. 2 (step 306). The capture of an image derived from the dermal
surface having fluoresced biological points constitutes proof of liveness
since only a living being is capable of providing such fluoresced
biological points. The apparatus may include a controller (not shown)
configured to interface with electro-magnetic field generator 140 and
image capture device 150 and coordinate the detection of the fingerpad,
application of the pulsed electrical charge and image capture of the
fluoresced biological points on the fingerpad.

[0029] Next, the sweat pore biometric identification system analyzes the
fluoresced biological points on the image (step 308) and uses an
algorithm to compare the biometric information obtained from the image
with reference biometric information stored in a repository, such as
Reference Database 312 (step 310). The step of analyzing the fluoresced
biological points may be performed by the sweat pore biometric
identification apparatus 100 or a separate device (e.g., a secure network
server or a local computer device) coupled in communication with
apparatus 100. Similarly, the step of comparing the biometric information
obtained from the captured image with the biometric information stored in
a repository may be performed by the sweat pore biometric identification
apparatus 100 or a separate device coupled in communication with
apparatus 100. Reference Database 312 may be maintained on the apparatus,
a local storage device or a remote storage device. For security purposes,
communications within the sweat pore biometric identification system
(e.g., between Apparatus 100 and Reference Database 312) are preferably
encrypted. For this same reason, data stored on Reference Database 312,
Apparatus 100 or any other device used in the sweat pore biometric
identification system is preferably encrypted. Accordingly, apparatus 100
comprises cryptographic capabilities for encrypting transmitted
communications, decrypting received encrypted communications and
encrypting stored data.

[0030] Step 308 of analyzing the fluorescent biological points depicted on
the captured image may include converting the visual information to a
digital format. This may be done by any of a number of different
techniques, including gray-scale analysis wherein a two-dimensional gray
scale matrix is created by assigning gray-scale values for each pixel in
the captured image. By way of example, the gray-scale values may span a
range from 0 to 255 with 0 corresponding to black and 255 corresponding
the brightest or most intense fluorescence of the biological points on
the captured image. The gray-scale matrix may then be used to map the
location, size and intensity of each detected sweat pore on the fingerpad
image. Various known techniques may be used to extract this sweat pore
information from the gray-scale matrix, including noise reduction,
contrast enhancement, binarization, thinning, healing and feature
extraction. For example, the data generated from the captured image may
be filtered to decrease the effect of noise captured on the image. This
gray-scale matrix data may be encoded in a biometric barcode as explained
in more detail below.

[0031] After comparing the detected sweat pore biometric information with
the stored reference biometric information, a determination is made as to
whether the detected sweat pore biometric information matches an entry on
the reference database (step 314). If no match is found (no output of
step 314), the process proceeds to step 320. If a match is found (yes
output of step 314), the process proceeds to step 316 where an indicator
is provided confirming a positive biometric identification. Such an
indicator is an optional feature of the illustrated process and may
include a visual display and/or an audio signal. The process then
proceeds to step 318 where the biometric identification system authorizes
access to a secure area or device.

[0032] The process of comparing the sweat pore information from the
captured image with the stored reference sweat pore information may
involve matching the locations of detected sweat pore with reference
sweat pore locations. For example, the number or percentage of matches
may be measured by a correlation score. The correlation score may also
take into account the number or percentage of false detected sweat pores
(i.e., instances where there is no reference sweat pore location which
corresponds to a detected sweat pore location). The correlation score is
compared with a predetermined standard score for determining whether the
detected biometric information matches the reference biometric
information.

[0033] The sweat pore biometric identification system of the present
invention may also be used to provide a second proof of liveness measure.
Not only are an individual's sweat pores a fixed biometric in the sense
that their locations remain unchanged throughout the individual's life,
but they also can be considered as proof of liveness because the amount
and composition of complex metabolic waste substances contained in sweat
secreted from an individual sweat gland and the degree to which each
sweat pore is open (or even closed altogether) varies depending on
certain conditions, including the prevailing emotional and/or physical
state of the individual. Nerve fibers associated with an individual's
sweat glands function to control the degree to which a sweat pore is open
or even closed and the amount and composition of the sweat secreted from
or contained within the sweat glands based on an individual's emotional
state. For example, an individual's prevailing level of excitement,
anxiety or fear may cause the nerve fibers to activate the sweat glands
to secrete varying amounts of sweat. In addition, these nerve fibers may
also cause an individual's sweat pores to open to varying degrees or even
close in response to an individual's emotional state. In contrast, the
lack of any detectable variation of the sensed biological points
identifying the sweat pores is an indication of a spoofing attempt. This
is because over time, there will necessarily be at least some minimal
variation in the sensed biological points of a living being and identical
or essentially identical repeated detection of these sensed biological
points would indicate an artificial non-living biometric sample.
Accordingly, an analysis of the variation of an individual's sweat pores
can be used as a proof of liveness.

[0034]FIG. 4 provides a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process using
sweat pore information as a biometric for identification and proof of
liveness. The process shown in FIG. 4 may be implemented in a biometric
identification and liveness system using, for example, the apparatus
shown in FIG. 1.

[0035] As with the process illustrated in FIG. 3, the process starts by
detecting a fingerpad on the top surface of a transparent electrode plate
(step 402). Subsequent to detecting the fingerpad, a pulsed electrical
charge stimulates and excites molecules associated with the dermal
surface of the fingerpad causing the molecular compounds to fluoresce
(step 404). Then an image capture device obtains an image derived from
the fluoresced biological points (step 406).

[0036] Next the image is analyzed to identify sweat pore locations on the
fingerpad (step 408) and the identified sweat pore locations are compared
with reference sweat pore data stored on a database (step 410). Then a
determination is made (step 414) if the identified sweat pore locations
match an entry on the database. If no match is found, (no output of step
414), the process proceeds to step 420. If a match is found (yes output
of step 414), the process proceeds to step 422.

[0037] In one embodiment, step 422 uses an algorithm to compare the sweat
pore data detected from the individual and the matching reference
database sweat pore data to determine the degree of variation
therebetween. The variation analyzed by the algorithm may include the
intensity or brightness of the fluorescence of one or more sweat pores,
the size or shape of the sweat pores, and even the ability to detect the
presence of one or more specific sweat pores. Alternatively, the liveness
analyzer algorithm may compare past detected sweat pore data maintained
in a reference database for the identified individual with the detected
sweat pore data to determine the degree of variation therebetween. Or the
liveness analyzer algorithm may compare successive contemporaneous
detected sweat pore data to determine the degree of variation
therebetween. Proof of liveness is established where there is at least
some minimal variation in the compared sweat pore data. The lack of any
variation would indicate an artificial biometric sample and yield a no
output in step 424.

[0038] In addition, certain variations in an individual's detected sweat
pores can be used as an indicator of the individual's emotional or
physical state. For example, even if an individual biometric
identification is verified or authenticated, the detected biometric
information based on variation of sweat pore biometric information may be
useful for identifying individuals who may be experiencing emotional,
psychological or even physical distress. This information may be
particularly useful for identifying individuals who may present potential
security threats. Alternatively, this information may be useful to
identify individuals who may be in need of immediate medical attention.

[0039] In another embodiment of the invention, the biometric
identification apparatus is designed to detect the sweat pores along with
a second biometric such as a fingerprint to enhance biometric
identification reliability. Indeed, the unique method of stimulating the
molecules associated with the fingerpad and causing molecular compounds
to fluoresce in accordance with the present invention also enables the
simultaneous detection of sweat pore and fingerprint biometric
information. Specifically, the fluorescence of the molecular compounds
not only creates biological points which identify the location of sweat
pores, but also illuminates the fingerprint for image capture.

[0040] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process for
detecting and analyzing sweat pore and fingerprint biometric information
in accordance with the present invention. The process shown in FIG. 5 may
be implemented in a biometric identification system using, for example,
the apparatus shown in FIG. 1.

[0041] As described above with reference to the exemplary biometric
identification process illustrated in FIG. 3, the process begins with the
detection of a fingerpad on the top surface of the transparent electrode
plate (step 502). Subsequent to the detection of the fingerpad, the
electro-magnetic field generator 140 provides a pulsed electrical charge
to stimulate and excite molecules associated with the dermal surface of
the fingerpad and cause molecular compounds to fluoresce (step 504). An
image capture device 150 then obtains an image of the fingerpad with the
fluoresced biological points and illuminated fingerprint, such as shown
in FIG. 2 (step 506).

[0042] Next the biometric identification system analyzes the sweat pore
biometric information in the form of the fluoresced biological points and
identifies sweat pore locations (step 508). The locations of the sweat
pores may be identified by x- and y-coordinates on a two-dimensional
matrix containing a reference point. Such a reference point, for example,
may be a designated minutiae or macrofeature identified on the
fingerprint captured by the image. Alternatively, the relative locations
of the sweat pores may be identified by vector plot coordinates.

[0043] The detected sweat pore locations are then compared with reference
sweat pore biometric information maintained in a secure database 512
(step 510). In parallel with these sweat pore detection and comparison
steps, the process also performs a fingerprint identification step,
wherein the fingerprint pattern from the captured image is analyzed to
identify unique minutiae and macrofeatures (step 526). Next, the minutiae
and macrofeatures are compared to reference fingerprint data stored in a
secured database (step 528). Finally, a combined determination providing
enhanced reliability is made based on an evaluation of the matches
resulting from both the sweat pore and fingerprint biometric
identification processes (step 514). Alternatively, the sweat pore and
fingerprint biometric identification processes may occur in series with
either the sweat pore biometric identification providing a preliminary
determination subject to confirmation by fingerprint biometric
identification or vice versa.

[0044] This embodiment may be further adapted to perform a third biometric
measure based on the combined sweat pore and fingerprint biometric
information. Specifically, the minutiae or macrofeatures contained in the
fingerprint may be used to facilitate a mapping of the sweat pore
locations yielding a combined fingerprint/sweat pore biometric.

[0045] The biometric identification information obtained by the present
invention may also be used to create a unique biometric barcode
identifier for each individual. This barcode may be created using one or
more of the three biometric measures sensed by the present
invention--sweat pore locations as identified by fluoresced biological
points, fingerprint information (including ridge/valley patterns and
minutiae/macrofeatures), and the locations of sweat pores relative to the
fingerprint ridge/valley patterns and/or minutiae/macrofeatures.

[0046] As mentioned above, the fingerprint (ridge/valley patterns and
minutiae/macrofeatures) and sweat pore locations on an individual's
fingerpad are invariant throughout an individual's life and are generally
considered fixed biometric measures. Accordingly, the locations of and
spacing between the fingerprint ridges/valleys and
minutiae/macrofeatures, as well as the locations of and spacing between
sweat pores provide unique biometric measures for each individual. As
disclosed above, in one embodiment the present invention yields an image
derived from an individual's fingerpad containing both a fingerprint
pattern and sweat pore locations identified by fluorescent biological
points. According to the present invention, a biometric barcode may be
created from a linear scan of the fingerprint biometric information
and/or the sweat pore biometric information contained on the captured
image.

[0047] More specifically, a linear scan of the image in a reference
direction including a reference point may be reduced to binary data as a
function of the position across the individual's fingerpad. For example,
a linear scan of the sweat pore location information on the fingerpad
image yields a signal with maxima and minima which correspond to
fluoresced and non-fluoresced points on the image. The fluoresced points
represent sweat pore locations and the non-fluoresced points represent
space on the fingerpad between sweat pores. These maxima and minima are
then reduced to a binary ONE or ZERO, respectively. This binary data can
be further reduced to a series of lines and spaces of known widths to
create a first unique barcode representative of the relative locations of
sweat pores along the linear scan of the image. In this same manner, a
second unique barcode identifier representative of the fingerprint
ridge/valley pattern and/or minutiae/macrofeature locations may be
derived from a linear scan of the image in a reference direction
including a reference point. In addition, a third unique barcode
identifier based on the combined fingerprint pattern and sweat pore
locations on a fingerpad may be created from a linear scan of the image
derived from the fingerpad. Each of these unique barcodes are referred to
as a one-dimensional bar code since they are representative of a single
biometric measure.

[0048] In addition to these three one-dimensional barcodes, any two of
these barcodes may be combined to provide a two-dimensional barcode
derived from two different biometric measures. Further, all three of
these barcodes may be combined to provide a three-dimensional barcode
derived from all three of the biometric measures.

[0049] These barcode identifiers may be used in a myriad of different ways
with the biometric identification or authentication systems of the
present invention. For example, these aspects of the invention may be
used for verifying and authenticating an individual's identity in
connection with commercial air travel. To this end, the process
illustrated in FIG. 3 may be used to confirm that the passenger is
approved for travel (i.e., not on a no-fly list). In order to obtain a
ticket, the passenger must be authorized to travel via the process
illustrated in FIG. 3. If authorized, the passenger's biometric barcode
will be printed on the ticket. Next, in order to board the plane, the
passenger must be authenticated using the process illustrated in FIG. 6.
First, the passenger must present the ticket with the biometric barcode.
Then the passenger's biometric identity must match the biometric identity
associated with the barcode on the ticket. In addition, if the passenger
checks luggage on the aircraft, the passenger's biometric barcode will be
printed on each baggage tracking label. This will facilitate the
retrieval of the passenger's checked baggage from the aircraft in the
event the passenger doesn't board the aircraft or is denied boarding the
aircraft. In addition, the barcode on the baggage tracking label may also
be used at the baggage claim site to prevent unauthorized individual's
from taking a passenger's luggage.

[0050] The biometric identification and barcode aspects of the present
invention may also be used by mail delivery or courier services for
assigning an individual's identity to a package or letter. In this
regard, the biometric identification system and barcode enable the
delivery or courier service to identify the individual who shipped a
package or letter. As will be appreciated, this will function as a strong
deterrent against the use of mail delivery or courier services for the
shipment of illegal materials, including explosives or illicit drugs.

[0051] According to a further aspect of the present invention, an
individual's biometric identification may be represented by an audio
signal based on a combination of multiple pitches of notes on a music
scale. For example, a combination of 25 different pitches of notes on
musical scale for a piano may be used to create a unique biometric audio
signal for an individual. The specific combination and order of the
pitches of notes corresponds to biometric identification information
sensed by the present invention. Alternatively, the biometric audio
signal may be derived from an individual's barcode identifier. This
biometric audio signal may be used as the audio signal broadcast to
confirm positive biometric identification according to the optional
feature of step 316 of the process illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0052] The present invention may also be adapted to detect and analyze the
composition of the sweat contained in or secreted from an individual's
sweat glands. To this end, the top surface of the transparent electrode
may be coated with a transparent film that is designed to detect certain
components in an individual's sweat. For example, it is known that sweat
contains an individual's DNA fragments which may be detected and used as
another source of biometric identification information. In addition, it
is also known that sweat contains chemical compositions indicative of
substances ingested by an individual such as alcohol or drugs
(prescription or illicit). Moreover, the amounts of detected compositions
in an individual's sweat may be indicative of the prevailing amount of
alcohol or drugs in the individual's blood stream. Therefore, for
example, the detection of an amount of a particular substance in an
individual's sweat may be used to determine if the individual has a blood
alcohol content exceeding a permissible limit. Similarly, this detection
system may be used to determine if an individual is under the influence
of an illicit drug. By way of further example, the detection of a
substance indicative of the presence or level of a prescription drug in
the individual's blood stream may be useful as a non-invasive method of
determining whether an individual has a particular medical condition that
merits attention.

[0053] Further, the present invention may be adapted to detect and analyze
the composition of the sweat secreted from an individual's sweat pores
for medical diagnostic purposes. For example, the chemical composition or
temporal variation in the chemical composition of an individual's sweat
may be indicative of the individual's health condition, including whether
the individual has contracted a disease or illness.

[0054] Moreover, the present invention may be adapted to detect and
analyze the residual material or substances on an individual's dermal
surface. To this end, the top surface of the transparent electrode may be
covered with a transparent film which is designed to detect the existence
of certain substances residing on the individual's dermal surface. For
example, the transparent film may be used to detect any residual
explosives material on an individual's fingers or palms. This information
could be particularly useful for identifying individuals who may present
potential security threats.

[0055] With regard to each of the detection systems for indicators based
on the composition of the sweat or residual material or substances on the
individual's dermal surface, the apparatus of FIG. 1 may be adapted to
include a display screen for viewing by a security agent.

[0056] The biometric identification system of the present invention is
particularly useful in a mobile system comprising a portable biometric
identification detection device coupled via a communication network with
a central database. To this end, the portable device may comprise a
network communication interface for communicating with the central
database. Alternatively, the portable device may comprise an external
communication interface configured to communicate with a network device
(such as a personal computer) having a network communication interface.
The external communication interface may be a serial communication
interface such as a universal serial bus or a wireless communication
interface such as Bluetooth protocol.

[0057] The present invention may also be used as a biometric
authentication system for verifying the purported identity of an
individual. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary biometric
authentication process based on the detection and analysis of sweat pores
in accordance with the present invention. The process shown in FIG. 6 may
be implemented in a biometric system using, for example, the apparatus
shown in FIG. 1.

[0058] The process begins when the apparatus receives an alleged identity
from the subject individual (step 600). This step can be implemented
where, for example, the subject individual presents an identification
badge, passport, credit card, bank ATM card, VPN token or any other
source of identification to a reader, scanner or any other device
configured to receive identification information from the identification
source. The authentication process may take place in situ where the
biometric authentication apparatus itself comprises a reference
identification database and performs the authentication process.
Alternatively, the authentication system may comprise a remote server
configured to perform the authentication process and/or a remote database
containing reference biometric identification information, wherein the
server and/or database reside, for example, on a LAN, WAN or the
Internet. For example, with regard to identification sources such as a
credit card, bank ATM card or VPN token, the biometric authentication
system may comprise a computer device having a network interface
configured to communicate via a network, such as a LAN, WAN or the
Internet, with a remote server and central database.

[0059] The process also proceeds from steps 602 to 608 in the same manner
as described above with regard to the process illustrated in FIG. 3. As
shown in FIG. 6, the purported identity information is inputted to the
secure database 612, which in turn, submits reference biometric
identification data for comparison with the detected sweat pore biometric
data (step 610). After comparing the detected sweat pore biometric
information with the stored reference biometric information, a
determination is made as to whether the detected sweat pore biometric
information matches the reference biometric identification data (step
614). If no match is found (no output of step 614), the process proceeds
to step 620. If a match is found (yes output of step 614), the process
proceeds to step 616 where an indicator is provided confirming a positive
biometric authentication. Such an indicator is an optional feature of the
invention and may include a visual display and/or an audio signal. The
process then proceeds to step 620 where the biometric authentication
system authorizes access to a secure area or device.

[0060] Thus, having described several embodiments, it will be recognized
by those skilled in the art that various modifications, alternative
configurations, and equivalents may be used in connection with the
practice of the present invention. For example, the biometric
identification and authentication processes of the exemplary embodiments
illustrated in FIGS. 3-6 provide for authorized access to a secure area
or device upon successful biometric identification or authentication.
However, it will be understood that these processes may also be used in
other contexts, including authorization for a commercial credit
transaction or banking transaction. With regard to a commercial credit
transaction, for example, the biometric identification and liveness
process illustrated in FIG. 4 may be modified such that step 418
authorizes the execution of a commercial credit transaction involving an
individual's online account. In this example, step 418 would involve
transmitting a communication to a secure database authorizing a credit
transaction for a specific account. The communication may be encoded with
the individual's biometric data obtained from either the captured
fingerpad image or the matching entry from the reference database for
identifying the individual's account on the secure database. Such a
system would circumvent many of the most prevalent identify theft issues
as it would eliminate the need for an individual to present a credit card
account number and use signature authorization. In addition, the written
receipt confirming this transaction and the purchased product may be
linked together by labeling or stamping each with the purchaser's
identification bar code. This use of the individual's identification bar
code may function as a theft deterrent system for a retailer and it may
also function to confirm the authenticity of the original transaction in
connection with the return of a product to the retailer for refund or
exchange.